1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 5,751 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Gran Torino should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 612 kg more than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Ford Gran Torino. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (374 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Ford Gran Torino | 1986 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Gran Torino | Grand Am |
Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5751 cc | 2471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 374 Nm | 179 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 101.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1742 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2630 mm |